Becker Mining Systems chief executive officer Franz Becker, who signed the agreement on July 1, 2010, with Vale Group managing director Gerard Cleary, said Vale brought to the Becker group a range of new and complementary products and services, along with a wealth of experience and capabilities in various operations.

The group of Vale companies will be consolidated into two entities, Becker Vale and Vale Industrial. Their combined turnover will exceed $A50 million with double-digit growth rates.

“As part of the Becker group, Vale now have access to leading-edge technologies, strong financial backing and a true global support network,” said Cleary, who has become the business development manager for the Becker Vale company.

Managing director of Becker Mining Australia Tony Napier said: “The combination of the Vale companies, with our existing Becker NCS subsidiary will significantly enhance Becker’s presence and capabilities in Australasia.

“Vale was the distributor for Becker’s flameproof electrical product lines and, given the developing market and our desire to introduce more of the Becker product lines to Australia, the acquisition was the best outcome for all.

“The existing company, Becker NCS, is very complementary to the Becker Vale group and are already working on joint projects.

“The working relationship with Vale commenced in 2007 so we have a good rapport and a strong understanding of the current market and potentials.

“Vale provide Becker Mining Australia with complete manufacturing facilities that are ISO9001 and AS3800 certified, so a significant benefit to Becker and a fast track to market entry.

“To manage the overall group and the high growth strategy, Becker Mining Australia has now been established and will oversee and coordinate the activities of the various Becker subsidiaries in Australasia.”

Becker Vale will continue with engineering, manufacturing and overhaul of both mechanical and electrical product lines.

Becker products will be introduced to the Australian market and supported by Becker Vale. A strong labour hire unit (previously Vale Contracting) that focuses on the underground coal markets will also be integrated.

This will result in Becker Vale being a one stop shop for many electrical and mechanical solutions, from concept, engineering, fabrication, installation and after sales support, said Napier.

Vale Industrial consolidates the labour hire and industrial aspects of the Vale group of companies and will focus on labour/maintenance, recruitment and professional placements.

The head office of Becker Vale will continue to be at Moss Vale, New South Wales.